Mood changes can occur in men and women as they age. You are not alone if you’re frustrated by mood swings and irritability. Many people feel the effects of depression that can alter their well-being. Treating depression is complex because symptoms can stem from various underlying causes. Seeking a functional medicine approach can help you understand the root cause and begin healing.
Depression Can Affect Your Well-Being
Feelings of sadness and irritability are normal. However, chronic sadness combined with other symptoms is a sign of depression. Research shows that more than 17 million Americans have suffered from depression at some point. If left untreated, these symptoms can affect your overall health and wellness.
Maintaining a balanced diet and exercise can help keep depression at bay. However, it’s not enough for some people. Some people also resort to antidepressants to restore balance to their mental health. In most cases, these medications result in unwanted side effects. Underlying health issues, past trauma, and environmental factors can contribute to depression, leaving people feeling powerless.
Common Causes Of Depression
Depression-related mood swings are complex. A healthy mind and body function well with a regulated sympathetic nervous system (SNS). If the SNS is out of balance, it can trigger lingering stress hormones. Long-term stress can lead to serious health concerns.
People can suffer from depression for various reasons.
Metabolic Dysfunction
Blood sugar levels have a significant impact on your mental health. Dysregulated blood sugar levels can lead to metabolic imbalance and obesity.
Environmental Factors
Most people aren’t aware of toxins in their homes or workplaces. Mold and air pollution can trigger inflammatory responses that decrease mental health.
Genetics
Understanding the genetics of depression is complex. Ongoing research suggests specific genes are prone to autism, anxiety, and depression.
Infections
Dealing with chronic illness can make you feel isolated and sad. Chronic diseases such as Lyme disease and West Nile virus can trigger depression symptoms.
Digestive Disorders
Changes in the gut microbiome can affect your mental well-being. If something disrupts the gut barrier, you may experience brain fog, fatigue, irritability, and depression.
Functional Medicine Can Help Identify the Source Of Depression
Seeking a comprehensive and holistic approach to health and wellness can alleviate depression symptoms. Functional medicine focuses on whole-body recovery. Rather than masking symptoms, this approach targets the source of unwanted symptoms. Trauma, chemical imbalances, drug issues, and sleep changes can lead to depression. A functional medicine provider carefully evaluates medical history, current symptoms, and lifestyle habits to determine the root cause. They also use extensive diagnostic and laboratory testing to create a personalized treatment plan that meets your body’s needs.
Recovering Your Mental Health With Functional Medicine
Maintaining a balanced diet and lifestyle can work wonders for your mental health. Certain foods can trigger gut imbalance, affecting mental health. An anti-inflammatory and nutrient-dense diet is best for combating depression. A functional medicine approach considers the biological and psychological implications for mental health. Healthcare providers often include supplement and therapy recommendations in their treatment plans.
Try A Functional Medicine Approach Today
If you’re suffering from symptoms of depression, there is hope for recovery. Contact True You Health and Wellness in Fredericksburg, VA, today.
